Who painted Saint Michael?

Saint Michael was painted by German 15th Century in 1460.

Where can I see Saint Michael?

Saint Michael is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Saint Michael?

Saint Michael is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Saint Michael

German 15th Century , 1460

Saint Michael is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1460 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Saint Michael is a hand-colored woodcut print depicting the saint in a dynamic pose, set against a vibrant, multi-colored background. The image features a mix of symbolic elements and figures, conveying a sense of protection and triumph.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure, Saint Michael, is identifiable by his red robe, halo, and sword, symbolizing his role as a protector. The kneeling man in white and the background figure in brown may represent the saved and the damned, respectively, underscoring the theme of divine intervention.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut with subsequent hand-coloring in six colors, the piece showcases a blend of printmaking technique and manual embellishment. The bold, flat areas of color and the textured woodcut lines contribute to its distinctive visual identity.

Context

This work reflects the artistic practices of the Renaissance, where woodcuts were a popular medium for disseminating religious imagery. The use of bright, symbolic colors aligns with the period's aesthetic sensibilities.

Legacy

As a representative of Renaissance printmaking, Saint Michael demonstrates the enduring appeal of woodcuts in conveying religious narratives through accessible, colorful imagery.